Steve Gamvroulas Responds to Metropolitan Isaiah

His Eminence Metropolitan Isaiah of Denver
4550 East Alameda Avenue
Denver, CO 80246-1208

Your Eminence,

I have read your recent protocol regarding the Layman Katinas and I felt it my duty to respond to it. I have been bothered for some time about it and have thought seriously about several points that concerned me. This is not an easy letter to write, but I feel that it is the right thing to do.

The first point that bothered me was your denial of any knowledge as to the crimes perpetrated by Katinas. This is not backed up by the obvious facts. It is difficult to understand how one of the Metropolitan's was not briefed on the lawsuit and the ”allegations” made by Katinas' victims.

It is not the first time a metropolitan has been made privy to the improper, unethical, immoral, and at times illegal activities by some in the clergy. It has been the philosophy for far too long to excuse the clergy while making threats, real or perceived, of excommunication against those who would dare point out their fallibility. This is not to say all clergy fall into this category. There remain many committed to the growth and nurturing of our precious religion. Sadly, the others who are there for their own egos, profit and to take advantage of the most defenseless among us. remain in place.

I take great offense to your attitude towards the children that were irreparably victimized by Katinas. You see, I am a police officer. In the past two year I have been assigned to investigate the sexual molestation of children involving the Internet. Sadly, the majority of my duties involve investigating persons who produce, distribute, and collect child molestation videos and picture. As part of my duties, I am required to view those images and try to bring justice for those children. Instead of being an ”avenging angel”, I view my duties as a guardian angel. I truly believe, that yes, I have been chosen by our merciful Lord for this position. Because of His mercies I have been able to make an impact in the lives of children, some I have known, and some I never will meet because I have been able to prevent someone from abusing them.

I have been witness to the most hideous and vile acts during the past two years. Through those images I have been like a first party witness to the most unChristlike actions that any person can commit. I have looked into the sad eyes of children as they glance into the camera. I have seen utter terror in their little eyes, I have seen the pleading for someone to end the agony they are forced to endure. I am forced to listen to their screams and cries as they are debased by evil people. I continually feel the frustration of not having the ability to stop those predators from going through with their depravity. I recall one individual, whom I had arrested for molesting a six year old girl who was placed in his trust. He told me that he could not understand what the big deal was. After all he ”didn't kill anybody”. This statement made me shiver with anger and disgust. How could anyone be so flippant to disregard the suffering of innocent children?

As you can see I have a very strong opinion as to these crimes. By your reference to the victims of Katinas as ”accusers” you downplay the unending harm they suffered at his hands. These children are forever scarred by the actions of Katinas. They are the *only* victims in this entire debacle.

I appreciate that you continue to pray for the souls of sinners. I am the worst sinner among many and require your prayers. I also pray. I pray that no child is ever harmed again in the way those children were at the hands of Katinas. I pray that those children who have been harmed are healed. I pray they can forever forget the ordeals they were forced to contend with. This being said, I ask that you also pray for those children harmed so long ago. I ask that you pray for their families who were there to care for them as they faced their unnecessary nightmares for those many years.

I ask that you not only to lead your flock, but also to protect us. Protect us from all enemies, not only those outside of our walls but also those from within.

With respect and in His service,

Steve Gamvroulas